Remembering Canada’s First Overseas Soldiers
Each November, Canadians pause to honour those who have served and sacrificed in times of war. While Remembrance Day most often brings to mind the World Wars, the roots of Canada’s military tradition stretch further back, to a conflict fought half a world away. The South African, or Boer War (1899–1902), marked the first time Canadian troops were officially sent overseas to fight under the British flag. That war began when tensions between Britain and the Boer Republics of South Africa erupted into open conflict. When Britain called upon its colonies for aid, Canada, then a young dominion, answered. Though the decision was controversial at home, Prime Minister Sir Wilfrid Laurier authorized the formation of a volunteer force. More than 7,000 Canadians would eventually serve, including infantry, mounted troops, and nurses. The first contingent, the Royal Canadian Regiment, sailed from Halifax in 1899 and in February 1900, soon saw heavy action at the Battle of Paardeberg. There, Canadian troops played a decisive role in forcing the surrender of Boer forces, a victory that earned them respect from British commanders and stirred pride across Canada. Later units, including the Royal Canadian Dragoons and Canadian Mounted Rifles, adapted to the guerrilla fighting that came to define the war’s later stages. By the war’s end in 1902, 267 Canadians had lost their lives, many to disease. Among them was John James Egerton Farley of St. Thomas. John had been a promising 22-year-old student- at-law and member of the Royal Canadian Regiment. Farley died of enteric fever in South Africa on February 4, 1900. His death, far from home, reflected the reality faced by many young Canadians who volunteered to serve in an unfamiliar land, bound by duty and loyalty to both Britain and an emerging Canadian identity. For the volunteers who left their farms, schools, and small towns, the Boer War was a test of courage and endurance. It marked Canada’s first step onto the world stage as a nation willing to uphold shared ideals of service and sacrifice. While this fight was not one of freedom, but rather of support for our Queen and the British Empire, it remains a significant chapter in our history. We may not agree today with why the Boer War was fought, yet we continue to honour those Canadians who were brave enough to serve this young dominion with courage and conviction. Today, as wreaths are laid, we remember not only those who served in the great wars that followed, but also the Canadians like John Farley—ordinary citizens who became soldiers in Canada’s first overseas fight.
Honouring those that have served and given their lives for our freedom
Saint Thomas Cemetery Company Owns and Operates St. Thomas Cemetery and South Park Cemetery
67 West Ave, St. Thomas 519-631-2038 stthomascemetery.com Grateful for local roots and the freedom sown by those who served. Lest we forget.
1030 Talbot St., St. Thomas 519 633-9691
We honour those who have given their lives or are serving our Nation
225 Chestnut Street, St.Thomas 519-633-2850 seniors_centre@hotmail.com
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • November 2025 Page 9
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